3.2 Project Initiation
Project initiation consists of activities to begin the identification of a project’s goals and objectives. These tasks include data collection and performing a site visit.
If the project is a LG project , refer to TxDOT’s
Local Government Policy Manual
and the Local Government Project Management Guide
for details on LG project initiation.3.2.1 Data Collection
Data collection will vary depending on project type, rigor and phase of development. The type of data collected in this phase should be sufficient to appropriately scope the project and determine the project’s goals and objectives.
The following is a list of data that may be collected during this phase of project development.
- As-built plans;
- Bridge inspection reports (Statewide Planning Map);
- Context classification;
- Crash data (TxDOT Traffic Safety Data Portal);
- Existing ADA maps (TAMES/TxDOT Comprehensive Accessibility Program(TCAP) Toolbox);
- Existing drainage plans/Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) studies;
- Existing plans (i.e., Division, District or other available planning documents) (Plans Online);
- Existing railroad information;
- Existing ROW Maps (Real Property Asset Map);
- Existing studies (e.g., feasibility, corridor, etc.);
- Existing traffic counts (TxDOT Traffic County maps; STARS II);
- Existing utility layouts;
- Functional classification (Statewide Planning Map);
- High-level environmental constraints;
- Pavement Scores (Pavement Management Information Systems (PMIS)); and
- Project applications (e.g., program/project calls such as Highway Safety Improvement Program, Highway Bridge Program, Carbon Reduction, etc.).
3.2.2 Site Visit
Site visits should be performed periodically during project development to accurately assess project needs to adequately scope a project. The purpose of the site visit is to identify needed improvements and physical or environmental constraints. Planning stage site analysis of land, location, signs of wildlife activity and possible environmental concerns can improve scope development and minimize oversight of key features.
Although maps, satellite imagery, or aerial photography may give an overview of a project area, a site visit is essential to obtain a more complete understanding of the existing conditions and constraints of the project area.
Site visits should include Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from all applicable project disciplines (e.g., roadway, drainage, bridge, environmental, utility, ROW, traffic, etc.) as well as District construction, bicycle coordinator, ADA pedestrian, area office, and maintenance section staff. Site visits for LG projects should also include the appropriate government officials (e.g., county commissioner, county road maintenance supervisor, city manager, city engineer, etc.). Site visits can reveal pedestrian and bicycle demand as well as potential design constraints.
Some bridge projects require a detailed on-site bridge condition assessment prior to project scoping. Consult with District bridge staff to determine if this level of site visit is needed.
A
Right of Entry
(ROE) or other written evidence of permission must always be obtained before entering private property on a site visit. Coordinate the ROE letter with District environmental, survey and geotechnical staff to streamline the number of ROE letters a property owner might receive. See
for more information on obtaining a ROE.
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